Indiana State University Newsroom

Researchers looking into weight, osteoporosis link

March 7, 2014

Researchers in Indiana State University's College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services are looking into whether there may be at least some benefit when young adults, especially women, carry extra pounds.

"Obesity is generally considered bad for your health, but we suspect being overweight at a younger age could decrease the risk of bone fractures after menopause," said Alvaro Gurovich, assistant professor of physical therapy in the department of applied medicine and rehabilitation.

Gurovich and a group of master's degree students in physician assistant students are investigating the relationship of body weight and height at age 27 with risk of osteoporosis after menopause.

As part of their research, students are offering free bone scans and information about healthy living on Saturdays and Sundays through March 16 at Honey Creek Mall in Terre Haute. Anyone is eligible to take advantage of the 15-minute procedure just inside the mall's main entrance but the study targets women between the ages of 45 and 65 who can remember their height and weight at 27 and have no severe physical impairment.